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Are Rapid HIV test kits reliable?
I'm asking this question because nowadays, many of us in Gen Z often find ourselves in new relationships every year, frequently changing partners even when we don't intend to. Changing partner also means changing sexual partners. To ensure safety, considering we don't always know the health status of our partners, would it be advisable to use a rapid HIV testing kit before engaging in sexual activity with a new partner? This would be especially convenient since going to a lab to give a blood sample and waiting a whole day for results can be very inconvenient. Instead, using a rapid kit just before having sex and waiting for results for only a few minutes would be much more practical, I understand that the common advice is to use condoms, but for those who choose not to, and still want to prioritize safety, could these kits be a viable alternative? How reliable are these kits, and could you recommend some reputable brands or companies that produce accurate testing kits?
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There is always a confirmatory test available if kit’s tested goes wrong
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Kindly do direct online consultations for detailed information
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Not effective for patients in early stages or incubation period
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The tests can identify a confirmed case of HIV in whom the viral load will be detectable.
But in a patient is an early case of HIV still in the incubation period or with a low viral count this might be missed in the rapid test kit and this can lead u to acquire the infection.
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Hence best to maintain safe sex practice and with known partners.
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Not advised to use this as a detection method
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Yes... however specific tests to be done... for details do direct online consultation
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No need to worry.specific treatment is available.it depends on severity of the disease . Complete medical history is required..
Pls do online consultation with Dermatologist for detailed prescription & guidance.
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Dr. Sonia Tekchandani
Dermatologist
39 yrs exp
Mumbai
The kit is not 100% reliable as it won't detect people with low viral load or if they are in their incubation period.
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Dr. Vaishnavi KV
Dermatologist
6 yrs exp
Kozhikode
No, tests will not detect latent infection
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Dr. Twinkle Patel
Dermatologist
5 yrs exp
Valsad
Yes
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Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.